What social commentary could Allende be making in “And of Clay Are We Created”?

In “And of Clay Are We Created” Isabel Allende makes a social commentary about how media creates fascination with human tragedy, regardless of its origin. The human brain has primitive mechanisms that cause people to feel empathy for the suffering of others. It is when these feelings are sensationalized by the media that human obsession occurs. There is a fine line between presenting socially responsible reports, and creating obsessions. At a point, it becomes harmful to one’s mental health, and to those who are actually suffering in the disaster.

In Allende’s story, the news media quickly moves in to cover the story of the volcanic eruption, but once they find the little girl stuck in the clay, they focus on her for hours on end. Viewers are mesmerized by the situation even though it ultimately leads to her death. The media does not assist in her rescue, instead they report on her demise.

Media representations can prepare people to react to personal situations and to provide support to those affected. On the other hand, this fascination with suffering can cause anxiety created by the unending media coverage of destruction and human suffering.